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Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Crispy Chicken Sandwich

The ultimate comfort food, this Crispy Chicken Sandwich features a perfectly seasoned and fried chicken cutlet nestled in a toasted bun with fresh toppings. It's an easy weeknight dinner that will have your family begging for more. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium chicken breasts boneless, skinless, halved into 6 cutlets
  • 1 1/2 cups low-fat buttermilk
  • 1 Tbsp hot sauce (we use Frank’s Red Hot brand)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup oil for frying vegetable oil, canola oil or peanut oil
  • 6 burger buns buttered and toasted
  • 6 leaves green lettuce
  • 1 large tomato sliced
  • 2 dill pickles sliced into rings
  • 1 Mayonnaise or your favorite sauce

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Start by taking the chicken cutlets and placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly tender and juicy chicken.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Whisk them together until well blended. Add the chicken cutlets to the bowl, turning them over to coat thoroughly in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate.
  3. Next, in a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, baking powder, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. This seasoned flour will add that essential texture and flavor to your fried chicken.
  4. Once the chicken has marinated, remove a piece from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dip the chicken into the seasoned flour mixture, pressing it onto the surface with your hands to ensure a good coating. Transfer the coated chicken to a wire rack to rest while you prepare for frying.
  5. In a soup pot or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F over medium-high heat. It’s important to monitor the temperature to ensure the chicken cooks properly without burning. Just before frying, dip the coated chicken back into the seasoned flour for an extra crispy layer.
  6. Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, 2 pieces at a time, to avoid overcrowding, which can drop the oil temperature. Maintain the oil temperature between 300°F and 325°F. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown and crispy.
  7. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side, ensuring it’s cooked through and has that rich color all over. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
  8. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drip off and helps keep the coating crisp. The internal temperature may continue to rise while it rests, ensuring perfect doneness.
  9. While the chicken rests, take the burger buns and lightly butter the cut sides. Toast them on a skillet until golden brown. This adds flavor and prevents the bun from becoming soggy.
  10. Now it’s time to assemble your Crispy Chicken Sandwich. Place a piece of chicken on the bottom half of the toasted bun, then layer with lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles. Spread mayonnaise or your favorite sauce on the top half of the bun, then crown your sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

In case you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to freeze, wrap the chicken tightly and store for up to 2 months. This ensures the flavors are preserved and the chicken remains delicious. Remember to keep experimenting with toppings and sauces to keep your meals exciting!